User interface for an in-sink dishwasher

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to an in-sink dishwasher for automatically washing household dishes without requiring the physical space of a built-in automatic dishwasher. The invention further relates to the dishwasher having a user interface mounted within the sink and which is covered by the lid when the lid is closed. The invention also relates to a liquid sealed user interface.

2. Description of the Related Art

In-sink dishwashers use the bowl of a sink to form part of the dishwasher housing that defines a wash chamber, with the open top of the bowl providing access to the wash chamber. A liquid recirculation system sprays wash liquid throughout the wash chamber to clean any dishes placed within. A lid covers the open top of the bowl when the in-sink dishwasher is being used to prevent the splashing or spraying of the recirculating wash liquid out of the open top of the bowl.

When the lid is closed, it is anticipated that the consumer will use the upper surface of the lid as a work surface, which may well include the preparation of food and the like. If a user interface is provided for the consumer to select the dish washing cycle and the corresponding parameters, if any, it is desirable to locate the user interface in a position where the user will not accidentally contact the user interface while the lid is used as a work surface. The accidental contacting of the user interface might undesirably impact the selected wash cycle, including prematurely terminating the wash cycle, selecting an unwanted wash cycle, or changing an operating parameter.

Since the user interface is likely to be exposed to liquid, it is also desirable to seal the user interface against liquid to protect metal components from oxidation associated with exposure to liquid and electrical components against damage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an in-sink dishwasher with a user interface located in the sink. The dishwasher comprises a sink having a bowl with a bottom wall from which extends a peripheral side wall that terminates in a peripheral flange, with the bottom wall and peripheral wall collectively defining a wash chamber with an open top for receiving dishes to be washed. A lid is movably mounted to the sink for movement between an opened position, permitting access to the wash chamber through the open top, and a closed position where the lid covers the open top. A control system for controlling the operation of the dishwasher is provided. The control system includes a user interface mounted to the peripheral flange of the sink.

The lid is sized such that the lid overlies and covers the user interface when the lid is in the closed position. A portion of the peripheral flange can form a step defined by a peripheral lip, with the user interface being located on the lip. The lip can be spaced below the remainder of the peripheral flange a sufficient amount such that the lid nests within the step when the lid is in the closed position.

In one aspect, the user interface comprises a circuit board having a plurality of switches that are accessible through an opening in the peripheral flange. A template can be provided in an overlying relationship to the switches to at least partially seal the switches relative to the opening in the peripheral flange so that liquid on the peripheral flange at the opening cannot reach the switches.

A cover plate can be used to support the template. The cover plate is in sealing arrangement with the peripheral flange. The mounting of the template to the cover plate can be accomplished by over molding the template onto the cover plate. The template can be made from a compressible material such that the template is compressed at the interface with the edge of the peripheral flange to enhance the seal.

A gasket can also be used to form the seal between the between the cover plate and the peripheral flange. The gasket circumscribes the opening in the peripheral flange and bears against a lower surface of the peripheral flange. The cover plate can have a channel in which the gasket is received.

The user interface can also include a spacer disposed between the cover plate and the circuit board and overlying the plurality of switches, with a portion of the spacer abutting the cover plate to seal the circuit board relative to the cover plate. The spacer can be made from an elastic material and have a plurality of actuators, with each actuator corresponding to one of the switches such that the movement of an actuator actuates the corresponding switch. The template can also have a plurality of buttons, with each button corresponding to one of the actuators such that the movement of a button moves the corresponding actuator to actuate the corresponding switch.

A bracket can be provided for mounting the circuit board to the sink. The bracket is mounted to the sink and the circuit board is mounted to the bracket to mount the circuit board to the sink. The spacer abuts the bracket to seal the circuit board relative to the bracket.

The circuit board is vertically oriented and the switches are located along an upper edge of the circuit board. The bracket has a slot in which at least a portion of the circuit board is received to mount the circuit board to the bracket. The bracket has a generally planar base in which the channel is formed, a side wall extending downward from the base, and at least one leg connecting the side wall to the base.

In another aspect, the invention relates to user interface having multiple seals relative to the sink. The user interface comprises a bracket mounted to the sink and to which the circuit board is mounted to thereby mount the circuit board to the sink. A first seal seals the circuit board relative to the bracket and a second seal seals the first seal relative to the peripheral flange.

The first seal can comprise a membrane overlying the plurality of switches and abutting the bracket to seal the circuit board relative to the bracket. The membrane has at least one actuator corresponding to one of the switches, whereby the movement of the actuator actuates the corresponding switch.

The second seal comprises a plate having one surface abutting the membrane and a second surface abutting the peripheral flange to form the seal between the first seal and the peripheral flange. The second seal can also include a gasket positioned between the second surface and the peripheral flange.

A template can be mounted to the plate and have at least one button that corresponds to the at least one actuator, whereby the pressing of the button moves the corresponding actuator to actuate the corresponding switch.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a user interface for use by a user to set operational parameters of an appliance. The user interface comprises a circuit board having a plurality of switches for setting the operational parameters, a housing for mounting the circuit board to the appliance, the housing having an opening in which the circuit board is received such that the plurality of switches are accessible exteriorly of the housing when the circuit board is mounted to the housing, and a membrane overlying the plurality of switches and mounted to the housing to seal the housing opening.

The membrane can have at least one actuator, which corresponds to one of the switches such that the movement of an actuator actuates the corresponding switch. The bracket has a channel substantially circumscribing the opening and the membrane is received within the bracket channel to form a seal between the membrane and the bracket.

The circuit board can be vertically oriented and the plurality of switches are located along an upper edge of the circuit board such that the switches are aligned with the opening. The bracket can include a slot in which at least a portion of the circuit board is received to mount the circuit board to the bracket.

In a more detailed form, the bracket has a generally planar base in which the channel is formed, a side wall extending downward from the base, and at least one leg connecting the side wall to the base, wherein the slot extends through the base and into the at least one leg, whereby when the circuit board is mounted in the slot, the side wall serves to isolate the circuit board from the appliance.

The circuit board can also include at least one light source. The membrane overlies the light source and has an opacity that permits the transmission of light from the light source through the membrane.

A template can be coupled to the membrane and have at least one button, which corresponds to one of the actuators, wherein the pressing of the button moves the corresponding actuator to actuate the corresponding switch. The at least one button is formed by a raised portion of the template. The template can have a transmissive portion corresponding to the light source such that the light transmitted by the light source is visible through the transmissive portion. The transmissive portion can be colored.

In yet another embodiment, the invention relates to a reduced profile, water-tight user interface for use by a user to set operational parameters of an appliance used in a wet environment and accessible through an opening in an outer housing of the appliance. The user interface comprises a circuit board comprising a generally planar body having an upper edge and a plurality of switches located on the upper edge for setting the operational parameters, a bracket for mounting the circuit board to the appliance such that the switches are accessible through the housing opening, the bracket having a face that supports the upper edge of the circuit board and a side that supports the planar body, with the face being adapted to mount adjacent the housing opening, a membrane overlying the plurality of switches and mounted to the bracket face to seal the switches relative to the bracket.

The bracket defines a slot extending from the face and along the side, with the slot having a width slightly larger than the thickness of the circuit board planar body to thereby slidably receive the circuit board within the slot. The face has a channel that circumscribes the slot and the channel receives a portion of the membrane to seal the circuit board relative to the bracket. The membrane can comprise at least one actuator, which corresponds to one of the switches such that the movement of an actuator actuates the corresponding switch.

A template can be coupled to the membrane and have at least one button that corresponds to the at least one actuator, whereby the pressing of the button moves the corresponding actuator to actuate the corresponding switch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of an in-sink dishwasher according to the invention, with the in-sink dishwasher shown mounted in a cabinet, the sink being of a double-bowl configuration and the one bowl forming part of the in-sink dishwasher having a lid, shown in an opened position, for covering the one bowl, and a user interface located at the periphery of the bowl.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view identical to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> except that the lid is shown in the closed position, covering the user interface.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is an assembly view of the in-sink dishwasher of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> and illustrating the assembly of the major removable components of the in-sink dishwasher which include the basket, spray arm, drain plug, drain filter, and bottom screen.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a schematic illustration of the liquid-handling components of the in-sink dishwasher and their functional interaction with the sink.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is an exploded perspective view of the user interface according to the invention and disclosing an interface board mounted in a bracket, with a spacer separating the interface board from a backing plate that supports a cover plate, which is sealed by a gasket to the sink.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a top view of the bracket shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a sectional view of the bracket taken along line <b>7</b>—<b>7</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a sectional view taken along line <b>8</b>—<b>8</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a front view of the interface board shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a top view of the interface board shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a end view of the interface board shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a top view of the spacer shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> as a bottom view of the spacer shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a longitudinal sectional view of the spacer taken along line <b>14</b>—<b>14</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a top view of the backing plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a bottom view of the backing plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a longitudinal sectional view of the backing plate taken along line <b>17</b>—<b>17</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> is a top view of the cover plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> and showing a cover template.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> is a bottom view of the cover plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> is a longitudinal sectional view of the cover plate taken along line <b>20</b>—<b>20</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> is a transverse sectional view of the cover plate taken along line <b>21</b>—<b>21</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> is a close-up top view of the template with the preferred indica.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> is a longitudinal sectional view of the assembled user interface when mounted to the sink.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref> is a transverse sectional view of the assembled user interface when mounted to the sink.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref> is a top view of an alternative cover plate.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 26</figref> is a bottom view of the alternative cover plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> is a sectional view of the alternative cover plate taken along line <b>27</b>—<b>27</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref> is a top view of an alternative template to be used in combination with the alternative cover plate shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 25</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 29</figref> is a sectional view of the alternative template taken along line <b>29</b>—<b>29</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 28</figref>.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates an in-sink dishwasher <b>10</b> mounted in a traditional cabinet fixture <b>12</b> having doors <b>14</b> providing access to the cabinet interior where the lower portion of the in-sink dishwasher <b>10</b> is located.

The in-sink dishwasher <b>10</b> is illustrated in the environment of a double-bowl sink <b>16</b> comprising a first bowl <b>18</b> and a second bowl <b>20</b>. The first bowl <b>18</b> performs the function of a traditional sink bowl and includes a drain opening <b>21</b>. The second bowl <b>20</b> performs the dual function of a traditional sink bowl while also forming a portion of the housing for the in-sink dishwasher.

The first and second bowls <b>18</b>, <b>20</b> are spaced from each other to define an intervening flange portion <b>22</b> that intersects a peripheral flange <b>24</b> surrounding both of the bowls <b>18</b>, <b>20</b>. Preferably, the double-bowl sink is made from stainless steel. In a single-bowl configuration, the intermediate flange would form part of the peripheral flange for the bowl <b>20</b>.

A traditional water faucet <b>28</b> is located in the peripheral flange <b>24</b> of the double-bowl sink and provides water to either of the first and second bowls <b>18</b>, <b>20</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> specifically and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> generally, the in-sink dishwasher comprises a wash chamber <b>30</b> that is defined by the second bowl <b>20</b>, which has an open top. A lid <b>32</b> is hinged mounted to the peripheral flange <b>24</b> of the double-bowl sink <b>16</b> and is movable between opened and closed positions to cover the open top of the second bowl <b>18</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

The second bowl <b>20</b> is formed by a peripheral wall <b>34</b> and a bottom wall <b>36</b>. The peripheral wall <b>34</b> extends upwardly and away from the bottom wall <b>36</b> and terminates in a peripheral lip <b>37</b> disposed slightly below the peripheral flange <b>24</b>, preferably such a distance that when the lid <b>32</b> is resting on the lip <b>37</b> in the closed position, the upper surface of the lid is approximately level with the peripheral flange <b>24</b>.

Conceptually, the peripherally lip can be thought of as a step portion associated with either the wall <b>36</b> or the peripheral flange <b>24</b>. While shown as extending around the bowl <b>20</b>, the peripheral lip <b>37</b> can extend along just one side or a part of one side of the bowl or on multiple sides, as desired. In the preferred embodiment, the lip <b>37</b> is peripheral and provides a support surface for the lid that enables the top of the lid to be flush with the peripheral flange <b>24</b> when the lid is closed.

A drain <b>38</b> is provided in the bottom wall <b>36</b>. A self-aligning puppet valve <b>40</b> also is located in the bottom wall <b>36</b>. Preferably, the self-aligning puppet valve <b>40</b> is centered in the bottom wall since the puppet valve <b>40</b> forms one part of a liquid coupling for supplying liquid to the wash chamber <b>30</b> when the second bowl <b>20</b> is used as an in-sink dishwasher.

A latch comprising a strike <b>39</b> and catch <b>41</b> are provided for holding the lid in the closed position. The strike <b>39</b> is preferably mounted to the lid <b>32</b> and the catch <b>41</b> is mounted to the sink and located in the lip <b>37</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> specifically and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> generally, the major components of the in-sink dishwasher comprise a bottom screen <b>42</b>, drain filter <b>44</b>, drain plug <b>46</b>, spray arm assembly <b>48</b>, and dish basket <b>50</b>. The bottom screen <b>42</b> is preferably formed of a thin metal material, such as stainless steel, in which is formed a series of perforations or holes <b>54</b>. A downwardly extending annular flange <b>56</b> is provided in the bottom screen <b>42</b> and defines a drain opening <b>58</b>, which aligns with the drain <b>38</b> when the bottom screen <b>42</b> is mounted to the bottom wall <b>36</b>. A recess <b>60</b> is formed on one side of the bottom screen <b>42</b> and is sized to receive the puppet valve <b>40</b> when the bottom screen <b>42</b> is positioned against the bottom wall <b>36</b>.

The spray arm assembly <b>48</b> comprises a hollow spray arm <b>114</b>, preferably made from stainless steel, with a liquid inlet <b>116</b> formed in a lower surface and spray outlets <b>117</b> formed on an upper surface. A mounting bracket <b>118</b> is secured to the upper surface of the spray arm <b>114</b> and includes resilient hooks <b>120</b> for snap-fitting with the basket <b>50</b> and a rotatable coupling <b>122</b> that rotatably mounts the spray arm <b>114</b> to the resilient hooks <b>120</b>. Thus, the mounting bracket <b>118</b> provides for the snap-fit mounting of the spray arm <b>114</b> to the basket while permitting the spray arm <b>114</b> to rotate relative to the basket <b>50</b>. A deflector <b>126</b> is mounted to the lower surface of the spray arm <b>114</b> and circumscribes the puppet valve <b>40</b> when the basket is seated in the wash chamber <b>20</b> to fluidly couple the puppet valve <b>40</b> to the spray arm <b>114</b>.

The basket <b>50</b> is made from multiple coated wires in a well-known manner and will not be described in great detail. The basket includes multiple peripheral wires <b>136</b>, forming the outer periphery of the basket side wall and multiple U-shaped wires <b>138</b> laterally spanning the peripheral wires <b>136</b> to form the basic basket shape. Feet <b>140</b> are formed by wires extending from the side of the basket. The feet <b>140</b> are preferably L-shaped and extend below the bottom of the basket so that the bottom of the basket will be spaced from the bottom wall of the sink when the feet touch the bottom wall.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> specifically and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> generally, the fluid control system for the in-sink dishwasher is generally described. The drain <b>38</b> is preferably made from plastic and includes a sump <b>148</b>. A temperature sensor <b>152</b>, preferably in the form of a thermistor, and a liquid level sensor <b>154</b>, preferably in the form of a dome-type pressure sensor, are located in the sump <b>148</b>. The drain <b>38</b> further includes a waste drain <b>160</b> extending from the sump <b>148</b> and is adapted to be connected to a household water drain.

A recirculation inlet <b>170</b> is formed in the side wall of the sump <b>148</b> below the lugs and above the annular sealing surface. A recirculation inlet <b>170</b> is connected to the puppet valve <b>40</b> by a liquid conduit <b>172</b>. The recirculation inlet <b>170</b> permits liquid flow in the sump <b>148</b> to be directed through the conduit <b>172</b> to the puppet valve <b>40</b> and into the spray arm <b>114</b>, when the basket <b>50</b> is seated within the second bowl <b>20</b> to establish a recirculation loop where liquid can be continuously recirculated from the sump and onto the dishes contained in the basket <b>50</b>.

A recirculation drain <b>174</b> is fluidly connected to the waste drain <b>160</b> below the location where the plug seats. The recirculation drain <b>174</b> is also fluidly connected to the conduit <b>172</b>. The fluid connection of the recirculation drain <b>174</b> between the waste drain <b>160</b> and the liquid conduit <b>172</b> permits the draining of the liquid in the recirculation loop even when the drain plug <b>46</b> has closed off the waste drain <b>160</b>.

An in-line liquid heater <b>176</b> and a recirculation pump <b>178</b> are fluidly connected to the liquid conduit <b>172</b> and form part of the recirculation loop. The in-line water heater <b>176</b> is used to receive liquid passing through the conduit <b>172</b> and the recirculation pump <b>178</b> pumps liquid through the recirculation loop.

A drain pump <b>180</b> is also fluidly connected to the liquid conduit <b>172</b> as well as to the recirculation drain <b>174</b>. The drain pump <b>180</b> permits the liquid in the recirculation loop to be drained from the wash chamber through the sump when the drain plug <b>46</b> has closed the waste drain <b>160</b>.

The recirculation pump <b>178</b> and drain pump <b>180</b> act both as a valve and a pump since when the pumps are turned off, water cannot pass through the pump. Therefore, both pumps can be coupled to the liquid conduit <b>172</b> without interfering with the flow of liquid through the recirculation loop or the draining of liquid from the recirculation loop. It is possible for a single pump with multiple outlets to be used in place of separate recirculation in-drain pumps.

A controller <b>220</b>, preferably a microprocessor-based controller, controls the operation of the in-sink dishwasher. The controller is electrically coupled to the in-line heater <b>176</b>, recirculation pump <b>178</b>, drain pump <b>180</b>, user interface <b>222</b>, inlet valve <b>224</b>, liquid level sensor <b>154</b>, and temperature sensor <b>152</b> to control their respective operations. The controller is also connected to a sensor (not shown) indicating whether the lid is latched. These types of sensors are well known in the art and are generally part of the strike <b>39</b> or catch <b>41</b>.

The controller <b>220</b> controls the operation of a wash cycle and preferably has multiple pre-programmed wash cycles, which correspond to the cycles shown on the user interface <b>222</b>. The pre-programmed cycles are stored within the memory of the controller.

There are many well-known wash cycles in addition to the previously described cycles and the invention is not limited to a particular cycle. The wash cycles typically comprise multiple steps, the building blocks of which include introducing and recirculating a charge of water into the wash chamber. Some steps can include the addition of a detergent. Other steps might include heating the water as in the case of the SANE-RINSE. The exact cycles and steps are not germane to the current invention other than the controller <b>220</b> for the in-sink dish washer is capable of performing one or more wash cycles.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates the user interface <b>222</b> in greater detail. The user interface <b>222</b> comprises a mounting bracket <b>230</b> that supports an interface or circuit board <b>232</b>. The bracket mounts to the sink to support the user interface relative to the sink. A spacer <b>234</b> spaces a backing plate <b>236</b> that supports a cover plate <b>238</b> relative to the interface board <b>232</b>. The spacer <b>234</b> also functions as a seal to seal the interface board <b>232</b> relative to the bracket. A gasket <b>240</b> seals the cover plate <b>238</b> with respect to the peripheral lip <b>37</b> of the sink. Since the cover plate <b>238</b> is preferably in contact with the bracket <b>230</b>, the gasket effectively functions as a second seal between the interface board and the sink.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5–8</figref>, the mounting bracket <b>230</b> comprises a base <b>244</b>, which defines a face for the bracket <b>230</b> having a generally planar surface, and in which is formed a central opening <b>246</b> that is bounded by an oval-shaped rib <b>248</b>. A second oval-shaped rib <b>250</b> circumscribes the oval-shaped rib <b>248</b>. The rib <b>248</b> can be thought of as the inner rib and the rib <b>250</b> can be thought of as the outer rib. The concentric ribs <b>248</b>, <b>250</b> define a channel therebetween. C-shaped stops <b>252</b> are located at the opposite ends of the base <b>244</b>. Fastener openings <b>254</b> extend through the base <b>244</b> at a location between the stops <b>252</b> and the outer rib <b>250</b>.

A back wall <b>256</b> defining a side to the bracket extends away from the base <b>244</b> and is located along an outer edge of the base <b>244</b>. Multiple support legs <b>258</b> extend between the back wall <b>256</b> and the base <b>244</b>. A slot <b>260</b> is formed in each of the support legs. Each of the slots <b>260</b> has an open top located at the base <b>244</b>. Openings <b>262</b> are located in the base <b>244</b> and align with the open tops of the slots <b>264</b> of the outermost legs <b>258</b>. The slots <b>260</b>, in combination with the openings <b>262</b>, collectively form a slot in which the interface board <b>232</b> is slidably received.

Referring to FIGS. <b>5</b> and <b>9</b>–<b>11</b>, the interface board <b>232</b> comprises a circuit board <b>270</b> having a generally planar shape with an upper edge <b>272</b> and a lower edge <b>274</b>. A series of switches <b>276</b> and lights <b>278</b> are arranged along the upper edge <b>272</b> of the circuit board <b>270</b>. A light array <b>280</b> is also located along the upper edge <b>272</b> of the circuit board <b>270</b>. The light array <b>280</b> comprises multiple lights <b>282</b>. The lights <b>278</b>, <b>282</b> are preferably in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED). A ribbon connector <b>284</b> extends from the lower edge <b>274</b> of the circuit board <b>270</b> and provides for all the electrical connections on the circuit board <b>272</b> of the controller <b>220</b>. It is within the scope of the invention for the controller <b>220</b> to be located on the circuit board <b>270</b>, negating the need for the ribbon connector.

Referring to FIGS. <b>5</b> and <b>12</b>–<b>14</b>, the spacer <b>234</b> is shown in greater detail. The spacer <b>234</b> is preferably a membrane made from silicon or any other suitable material that can perform a sealing function along with being elastic to permit the flexing and/or compression of the spacer <b>234</b>. The spacer <b>234</b> overlies the switches <b>276</b> and seals the switches <b>276</b> along with the circuit board <b>270</b> relative to the bracket.

The spacer <b>234</b> has a central elongated base <b>290</b> that is circumscribed by a shoulder <b>292</b> and from which extends a peripheral lip <b>294</b>, which defines a recess <b>296</b> on one side of the base <b>290</b>, for receiving the upper edge <b>272</b> of the circuit board <b>270</b>. A series of actuators <b>298</b> are integrally formed with the base <b>290</b> and extend away from the base <b>290</b> in a direction opposite the recess <b>296</b>. Each of the actuators <b>298</b> corresponds to a switch <b>276</b> on the circuit board <b>270</b> such that the depression of the actuators <b>298</b> will result in the actuation of the corresponding switch <b>276</b> when the user interface is assembled.

An annular depression <b>300</b> in the upper surface of the base <b>290</b> circumscribes each actuator <b>298</b>. A recess <b>302</b> is formed in the lower surface of the base <b>290</b>. The recess <b>302</b> overlaps the annular depression <b>300</b> and forms a reduced thickness portion that circumscribes each of the actuators <b>298</b>, which aids in moving the actuators <b>298</b> relative to the base <b>290</b>.

A series of lighting recesses <b>306</b> are located on the base <b>290</b>. The lighting recesses are formed by annular rings <b>308</b> that extend from the lower surface of the base <b>290</b>. The lighting recesses <b>306</b> correspond to the lights <b>278</b>. The annular ring <b>308</b> helps in positioning the lights <b>278</b> within the recess <b>306</b>.

The spacer is preferably made from a material having an opacity that permits the light emitted by the light sources on the circuit board to pass through the spacer. The light-transmissive nature of the spacer can be translucent or transparent.

Referring to FIGS. <b>5</b> and <b>15</b>–<b>17</b>, the backing plate <b>236</b> comprises a base <b>314</b> circumscribed by a peripheral rim <b>316</b>, which extends below the lower surface of the base <b>314</b> and defines a recess <b>320</b>, which is sized to receive the spacer <b>234</b>.

A series of chamfered openings <b>324</b> are formed in the base <b>314</b> and extend therethrough to the recess <b>320</b>. Each of the chamfered openings <b>324</b> comprises an outer bevel portion <b>326</b> that circumscribes a through opening <b>328</b>. The chamfered openings <b>324</b> correspond to the actuators <b>298</b> of the spacer <b>234</b> and the through openings <b>328</b> are sized to receive the actuators <b>298</b>.

A series of light openings <b>330</b> are located adjacent the chamfered openings <b>324</b>. The light openings <b>330</b> correspond to the light recesses <b>306</b> of the spacer <b>234</b>. Light openings <b>330</b> are also provided for the lights <b>282</b> of the light array <b>280</b>.

Referring to FIGS. <b>5</b> and <b>18</b>–<b>21</b>, the cover plate <b>238</b> is shown in greater detail. The cover plate <b>238</b> comprises a base <b>340</b> circumscribed by a rim <b>342</b>, which defines a channel <b>344</b> therebetween. The channel <b>344</b> is sized to receive the gasket <b>240</b>. The rim <b>342</b> extends below the base <b>340</b> to form a recess <b>346</b>, which is sized to receive the base <b>314</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b>.

A series of button openings <b>348</b> extends through the base <b>340</b> and into the recess <b>346</b>. Some of the adjacent button openings <b>348</b> are connected by channels <b>350</b>. Partial oval-shaped openings <b>352</b> are provided for some of the button openings <b>348</b>. Oval-shaped light openings <b>354</b> extend through the base <b>340</b>.

The button openings <b>348</b> correspond to the chamfered openings <b>324</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b>. The channel <b>350</b> and the partial oval-shaped openings <b>352</b> correspond to the light openings <b>330</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b>. The oval-shaped light openings <b>354</b> correspond to the light openings <b>330</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b> for the light array <b>280</b>.

A template <b>356</b> is over molded onto the base <b>340</b> and comprises a series of raised buttons <b>358</b>, which correspond to the button openings <b>348</b>. The template <b>356</b> further comprises a series of transparent or translucent windows <b>360</b>, which correspond to the partial oval-shaped openings <b>352</b> and/or the oval-shaped light openings <b>354</b>. The windows <b>360</b> can be colored such that any light passing through the windows will be similarly colored. The selected color will normally correspond to colors indicative of certain standard operational statuses. For example, red can be used to indicate the abnormal stopping of a cycle and green can be used to indicate the normal completion of a cycle.

The template <b>356</b> is typically printed with indica that aid the user in selecting various operational features of the in-sink dishwasher or inputting various operational parameters. The template <b>356</b> can also be made from a compressible material to enhance the quality of the feel to the end user. Additionally, although not shown, the template can be sized such that it abuts the edge of the opening in the peripheral flange to form yet another seal between the user interface and the sink.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> illustrates a preferred template <b>356</b> for the user interface <b>222</b>. The selection buttons <b>358</b> are grouped according to their corresponding function. For example, the buttons identified by numeral <b>362</b> correspond to wash cycles, such as POTS/PANS, NORMAL, QUICK WASH, and RINSE ONLY, respectively. Button <b>364</b> corresponds to an OPTION, such as SANE-RINSE, which includes a high-temperature rinse. Although only one option button is shown, more than one can be provided. The button group identified by numeral <b>366</b> relates to the general operational status of the in-sink dishwasher, identifies the START and CANCEL functions, respectively, and has a single window <b>360</b>.

The windows <b>360</b> adjacent button <b>358</b> function as an indicator for that button when light is passed through the window. The windows <b>360</b> disposed between the option selection button group <b>364</b> and the operation button group <b>366</b> are used for status indicators for indicating any desired status of the in-sink dishwasher. Examples of common operational status are CONTROL LOCK, SANITIZED, DRAIN. A window <b>360</b> is provided adjacent the CANCEL button and indicates that the rinse aid reservoir is empty. The status light can be located anywhere on the user interface and can indicate any desired status.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 23</figref>, to assemble the user interface <b>222</b>, the interface board <b>232</b> is first mounted to the mounting bracket <b>230</b> by inserting the circuit board <b>270</b> into the channel formed by the slots <b>260</b> and the openings <b>262</b>, while ensuring that the ribbon connector <b>284</b> extends through the central opening <b>246</b>. The spacer <b>234</b> is then positioned such that it overlies the circuit board <b>270</b> and the actuators <b>298</b> and light recesses <b>306</b> align with the switches <b>276</b> and lights <b>278</b>, <b>282</b>, respectively. The spacer <b>234</b> is then brought into abutting contact with the bracket <b>230</b> such that the shoulder <b>292</b> of the spacer <b>234</b> abuts the inner rib <b>248</b> of the base <b>244</b> and the plate <b>294</b> of the spacer <b>234</b> is received in the channel formed between the inner and outer ribs <b>248</b>, <b>250</b> to thereby seal the circuit board relative to the bracket.

The backing plate <b>236</b> is then positioned on top of the spacer <b>234</b> such that the chamfered openings <b>324</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b> receive the actuators <b>298</b> of the spacer <b>234</b>, which necessarily align the openings <b>328</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b> with the light recesses <b>306</b> of the spacer. Thus, any light emitted by the lights <b>278</b> and <b>282</b> will pass through the corresponding light recesses <b>306</b>-and will be directed through the light openings <b>330</b>. When the backing plate <b>236</b> is assembled onto the spacer <b>234</b>, the actuators <b>298</b> extend through the chamfered openings <b>324</b> and slightly beyond the upper edge of the chamfered openings. The rim <b>316</b> of the backing plate abuts the shoulder <b>292</b> of the spacer and compresses the spacer against the inner rib <b>248</b>.

The cover plate <b>238</b> is then assembled to the backing plate <b>236</b> by aligning the cover plate <b>238</b> with respect to the backing plate <b>236</b> such that the button openings <b>348</b> are aligned with the actuators <b>298</b>, which necessarily align the channel <b>350</b>, partial oval-shaped openings <b>352</b>, and oval-shaped light openings <b>354</b> with the corresponding light openings <b>330</b>. As the cover plate <b>238</b> is mounted to the backing plate <b>236</b>, the backing plate <b>236</b> is received within the recess <b>346</b> of the cover plate.

As best seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 23 and 24</figref>, the assembly necessarily aligns the switches <b>276</b> with the actuators <b>298</b> of the spacer <b>234</b>, which are positioned beneath the raised buttons <b>358</b> of the template <b>356</b>. Thus, the depression of the raised buttons <b>358</b> on the template <b>356</b> will result in the corresponding depression of the switches <b>276</b>. The reduced cross-sectional area surrounding the actuators <b>298</b> formed by the annular depression <b>300</b> and recess <b>300</b> increases the ability of the actuators <b>298</b> to move relative to the base <b>298</b> of the spacer <b>234</b>.

The lights <b>278</b> and <b>282</b> are aligned with the light recess <b>306</b>, light openings <b>330</b>, and the windows <b>360</b> on the template <b>356</b>. The alignment provides for any light emitted by the lights <b>278</b> and <b>282</b> to be seen through the corresponding window <b>360</b>.

The assembly is completed by inserting the gasket <b>240</b> into the channel <b>344</b> of the cover plate <b>238</b>. Once the gasket <b>240</b> is inserted within the channel <b>344</b>, the bracket <b>230</b> is mounted to the peripheral lip <b>37</b> of the sink by fasteners (not shown) extending through the aligned fastener openings <b>254</b> of the bracket <b>230</b> and <b>332</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b> and into a corresponding fastener mounted on the sink. The assembled user interface is mounted to the sink such that the base <b>340</b> is aligned with a corresponding opening in the peripheral lip. The tightening of the fastener draws the bracket <b>230</b> towards the peripheral lip of the sink, thereby compressing the gasket <b>240</b> against the peripheral lip to form a seal between the peripheral lip and the cover plate <b>238</b>.

The seal between the peripheral lip and the cover plate <b>238</b> formed by the compression of the gasket <b>240</b> is enhanced by the template <b>356</b> being made from a water-impermeable material and over-molded onto the base <b>340</b>. The water-impermeable nature of the template <b>356</b> prevents any water contacting the template <b>356</b> from passing through to the backing plate <b>236</b>. The over-molding of the template <b>356</b> onto the base <b>340</b> results in the edge of the template <b>356</b> not being exposed above the peripheral lip, thereby reducing the tendency of any water to migrate between the template <b>356</b> and the base <b>340</b> and passing onto the backing plate <b>236</b>. The gasket <b>240</b> is also in contact with the side of the template <b>356</b> and also serves to seal the template <b>356</b> with respect to the peripheral lip of the sink in addition to the seal obtained by over molding.

Another seal is formed between the backing plate <b>236</b> and the spacer <b>234</b>. Rim <b>316</b> of the backing plate <b>236</b> bears against the shoulder <b>292</b> of the spacer <b>234</b> and compresses the spacer between the rim <b>322</b> and the outer rib <b>258</b> of the mounting bracket <b>230</b>. The combination of the chamfered openings <b>326</b> and the actuators <b>298</b> effectively block a knife or other sharp instrument that might puncture the template from reaching the circuit board. The chamfered openings <b>326</b> and the actuators <b>298</b> are sized such that when the actuators <b>298</b> are received through the chamfered openings <b>326</b>, there is not sufficient room for the knife, loaded with a predetermined force, to pass through the spacer and reach the circuit board.

The spacer <b>234</b> is preferably made from a compressible and flexible material such as silicon. The advantage of making the spacer from a flexible and compressible material is that the spacer can accommodate the multiple tolerance variances associated with all of the parts comprising the user interface <b>222</b>. Therefore, it is desirable that the spacer is of sufficient thickness and has sufficient compressibility to accommodate the anticipated tolerance variations in the several parts.

It is within the scope of the invention for the template <b>356</b> to be integrally formed with the cover plate <b>238</b>, backing plate <b>236</b>, and/or spacer <b>234</b>. In other words, the indica on the template <b>356</b> can be located or incorporated with the cover plate <b>238</b>, backing plate <b>236</b>, or spacer <b>234</b>. Of course, some of the functionality of the invention will be lost in doing so. For example, if the indica is located directly on the cover plate <b>238</b>, the actuators <b>298</b> of the openings <b>348</b> in the cover plate will be exposed, increasing the likelihood that liquid can flow onto the spacer <b>234</b> through the openings <b>348</b> to bypass the seal formed by the gasket.

Another possible alteration is that the indica be placed directly on the spacer <b>234</b>. If so, it would be possible to completely eliminate the cover plate <b>238</b> and backing plate <b>236</b> and the spacer <b>234</b> would seal against both the lip <b>237</b> and the bracket <b>230</b>. It is possible that the spacer <b>234</b> could be used in combination with the gasket <b>240</b>. However, since the spacer <b>234</b> is preferably made from a compressible material, the gasket would most likely not be needed. If the cover plate <b>238</b> and backing plate <b>236</b> are not used, the user interface would not necessarily have the knife safety feature provided by the combination of the chamfered openings and actuators.

It is also possible that the cover plate and the backing plate can be combined. In such a configuration, the chamfered opening would be formed integrally with the cover plate. This would, however, make it more difficult to overfold the template on the cover plate <b>236</b>.

To perform a wash cycle, the user selects the desired cycle by depressing the corresponding button <b>358</b> of the cycle group <b>362</b>. The user then selects an option desired by depressing the option button <b>358</b> of the option group <b>364</b>. After selecting the cycle and the corresponding options, the user selects the START button and the controller <b>220</b> implements the selected cycle, along with the selected options, if any. The user can terminate the selected cycle by depressing the CANCEL button.

Once the lid <b>32</b> is closed after the selection of the cycle, options, and the depression of the START button, the controller <b>220</b> implements the selected cycle by operating the in-line heater <b>176</b>, recirculation pump <b>178</b>, drain pump <b>180</b>, and inlet valve <b>224</b>, along with data from the water level sensor <b>154</b> and the temperature sensor <b>152</b>. The controller generally includes an internal clock that handles timing functions and internal counters for any cycle functions. If, for any reason, the lid <b>32</b> is opened during the operation of the wash cycle, the controller <b>220</b> pauses the cycle, which can then be terminated by depressing the CANCEL button.

Another advantage of the invention is that when the lid is closed, the lid overlies the user interface and protects the buttons <b>358</b> from accidental depression. This is especially important in the in-sink dish washer configuration where the lid in the closed position effectively forms an extension of the counter top and provides additional work surface for food preparation. Since the lid is adjacent the water faucet and the first bowl, it is very likely that the lid will become a prime work surface when it is closed, increasing the importance that the user be prevented from accidentally depressing buttons on the user interface during the operation of a wash cycle.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25–29</figref> illustrate an alternative cover plate construction. Since the alternative cover plate structure combines many features of the previously described cover plate and backing plate, like numbers with the prime notation will be used to identify like elements.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 25–27</figref>, the backing plate <b>238</b>′ comprises a base <b>340</b>′ circumscribed by a peripheral rim <b>342</b>′, which is spaced from the base <b>340</b>′ and defines a peripheral channel <b>344</b>′ therebetween. The peripheral rim <b>342</b>′ extends below the lower surface of the base <b>340</b>′ and defines a recess <b>346</b>′, which is sized to receive the spacer <b>234</b>. A rim <b>316</b>′ extends from the lower surface of the base <b>340</b>′ and to the recess <b>346</b>′ and has a shape that corresponds to the base <b>290</b> of the spacer <b>234</b> so that the base <b>290</b> of the spacer is received within the recess <b>346</b>′ when the user interface <b>222</b> is assembled.

A series of raised chamfered openings <b>324</b>′ is formed in the base <b>340</b>′ and extend therethrough and into the recess <b>346</b>′. Each of the chamfered openings <b>324</b>′ comprises an outer bevel portion <b>326</b>′ that circumscribes a through opening <b>328</b>′. The chamfered openings <b>324</b>′ correspond to the actuators <b>298</b> of the spacer <b>234</b> and the through openings <b>328</b>′ are sized to receive the actuators <b>298</b>.

A series of light openings <b>330</b>′ is located adjacent the chamfered openings <b>324</b>′. The light openings <b>330</b>′ correspond to the light recesses <b>306</b> of the spacer <b>234</b>. Light openings <b>330</b>′ are also provided for the lights <b>282</b> of the light array <b>280</b>. Fastener openings <b>332</b>′ are disposed on opposite sides of the base <b>340</b>′ and correspond to the openings <b>254</b> in the base <b>244</b> of the bracket <b>230</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 28–29</figref>, the template <b>356</b>′ is identical to the template <b>356</b> except that it is adhered to the base <b>340</b> instead of being over molded. The template <b>356</b>′ comprises a series of raised buttons <b>358</b>′, which correspond to the chamfered openings <b>324</b>′. The template <b>356</b>′ further comprises a series of transparent or translucent windows <b>360</b>′, which correspond to the light openings <b>330</b>′.

When the template <b>356</b>′ is mounted to the base <b>340</b>′, the buttons <b>358</b>′ and windows <b>360</b>′ align with the chamfered openings <b>324</b>′ and light openings <b>330</b>′, respectively, permitting light to pass from the lights <b>278</b>, <b>282</b>, through the spacer, light openings <b>330</b>′, and windows <b>360</b>′.

While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation, and the scope of the appended claims should be construed as broadly as the prior art will permit.